The school board wishes to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who took the time to attend Monday night's open forum to discuss the status of the athletic field and the health and safety concerns regarding all of our children.

We also thank our state experts from both the agriculture and public health fields who gave up their evening to answer our collective questions about the situation.

We understand and appreciate everyone's concerns about various aspects of the process, particularly the health of our community's children. The board apologizes for our mistakes. The board sincerely thanks everyone for sharing their input.

In addition to assuring that the field project proceeds safely, the board has already begun to review our bid procurement process. In response to the expressed concerns, it is the intention of the board to research and adopt clear policies for these issues, as well as other environmental health policies.

The board will work together with the community and the administration to resolve the field situation quickly, and in the best possible manner. Toward that end, there will be a special meeting of the school board on Thursday, June 19, 7 p.m., at the Waitsfield Elementary School to determine the next steps for restoring the field.

The school board is committed to do what is best for our children and our school. It is an honor to serve our school community, and we thank you for your patience and support in this important matter.